Bann’s quartet earn their places in San Diego

Banbridge skipper and Ireland's most capped player Eugene Magee is one of four Bann players set to play in the World League 2 tournament. Pic: Rowland White / Presseye.

Published:13:00Tuesday 10 February 2015

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It’s been a big week for Banbridge’s international hockey stars, four of whom have made the Ireland squad for the upcoming World League 2 tournament.

Drew Carlisle, Eugene Magee, Stephen Dowds and Bruce McCandless have all made it into Craig Fulton’s 18 man squad.

The quartet were part of the side’s recent warm weather training camp in South Africa and did enough to impress the coach and earn their spot on the plane to San Diego on the 20th February.

On top of that, Owen Magee is set to win his first senior international cap tonight (Tuesday) against France at Three Rock Rovers.

The men will play three matches against France on February 10th, 12th and 13th at 7pm at Three Rock Rovers.

BHC President Sheree Totton said: “We are delighted that Drew, Stevie, Eugene and Bruce have all been selected to travel to the US to represent Ireland.

“We believe this is the first time that Bann has had as many as four players in the International squad and this is a fantastic achievement for the boys and the club as a whole.

“We would also like to congratulate Peter Brown, Owen Magee and Matthew Bell on being selected to play in matches against France this week, particularly Owen Magee who will win his first full International cap.”

Coach Craig Fulton said: “The recent training camp in South Africa formed the basis for World league 2 selection given the training sessions and six quality Test matches we played.

“The depth in the Irish National squad is very healthy so selection is always very difficult. The 18 selected for WL2 will also play against France next week in Dublin as we continue preparations for San Diego.”